On Thursday evening, 30 January 2025, H.E. Ms. Barbara Mestanova, Ambassador of the Slovak Republic to the State of Israel hosted a reception in honour of her country's 32 anniversary of independence at the Dan, Tel Aviv.
Mr. Peter Karpo Prince, P.A. to the Ambassador, Master of Ceremonies, warmly welcomed everyone present followed by the Ambassador's speech.
H.E. Ms. Barbara Mestanova cordially greeted and welcomed all guests to the Slovak Republic's 32 year anniversary celebration which was declared on the 1st of January 1993 after peacefully splitting from Czechoslovakia which was shared with the present Czech Republic. On the eve of the declaration of independence, 93 countries recognized Slovakia statehood including Israel. She expressed her thanks and gratitude to IAI Israel Aerospace Industries . If ever Slovakia had to face hardships, it was nothing in comparison to the hardships Israel experienced during its War of Independence in 1948. She emotionally stated that nothing is more important than bringing each and every hostage home to their families.
Representing the State of Israel was H.E. Ms. May Golan, Minister of Social Equality and the Advancement of the Status of Women in Israel. The synergy between her and the Ambassador was palpable as she started her address by expressing her admiration for the Ambassador, finding her a source of inspiration. In these challenging times your presence here today is cherished. She expressed her thanks and gratitude to the Ambassador by thanking her for her support during the challenging times Israel is facing. She paid homage to Guy Khalifa, a dual Slovak - Israeli citizen who was murdered at the Nova festival. The Minister also mentioned that she looks forward to welcoming Slovakia leadership, hopefully in the not too distant future. She also wished Slovakia's Prime Minister, Mr. Robert Fico, who less than a year ago survived an assasination attempt, a speedy and complete recovery. Recently an Air Defence agreement was signed between the two countries, being the most important to date. She referred to the strong bond between Israel and Slovakia and made reference to Slovakia's large Jewish population preceding World War 11. In 2016 the Slovak Republic established a Holocaust Museum and in 2021 a governmental apology was made with reference to the Holocaust. Since bi - latreal relations were established, trade, technology, education and culture has thrived between the two countries. She made mention of the Slovak Institute in Jerusalem, established in 2021 under the directorship of Jabuk Urik. In conclusion, the Minister wished the Slovak Republic peace,stability and economic prosperity for the future.
On behalf of the International Book Illustration Fair under the auspices of Unesco held in Bratislava, the Ambassador awarded second prize to Israeli artist, Ms. Maya Shleifer as she was unable to attend the ceremony in 2023 due to restrictions as a result of the worldwide Covid pandemic.
Mr. Jan Bogdan,a cellist from Kosice, Slovakia and a student at the Buchmann Mehta School of Music in Tel Aviv played Bach's Suite number 1 prelude. He is currently preparing to compete in an international Cello competition in the People's Republic of China.
A large buffet was served in an adjoining hall, accompanied by an array of dishes from roasted assado, pierogi, sausages, fish, salads, deserts and seasonal fruits.
Diplomacy.co.il warmly congratulates H.E. Ms. Barbara Mestanova and the Embassy staff on the 32nd anniversary of Slovak statehood and for their generous,gracious and warm hospitality.
Photos Silvia G. Golan
More pics at Facebook: Israel Diplo / Diplomacy Israel / Silvia G.Golan
